Take Charge of Energy and Water Use For Free!

03/24/26

The County of San Diego’s (County’s) Do-It-Yourself Sustainability Toolkit Program loans toolkits to unincorporated residents at no cost to help save energy and water, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and lower utility bills. Funded by SDG&E’s Local Government Partnership, this program provides practical tools in a toolbox, a step-by-step user guide, and a tote bag of giveaways, including LED lightbulbs, weatherstripping, a low-flow showerhead, and more (while supplies last)! This effort supports the County’s Climate Action Plan (CAP), which guides long-term sustainability efforts and sets goals to reduce GHG emissions.

Individual pointing an infrared thermometer at an air conditioning wall unit

The toolkit makes saving energy and water simple. Toolkit items to borrow and return include: Kill-A-Watt® Meter, infrared thermometer, refrigerator thermometer, water thermometer, water pressure gauge, drip gauge, and pliers. The toolkit also includes a user guide, which walks participants through how to use every tool, track energy and water use, and install giveaway items to maximize savings. Giveaway items that users can keep include: a reusable tote bag, 4 LED light bulbs, 3 faucet aerators, a low-flow showerhead, weatherstripping, water leak-detection dye tablets, a water flow-rate bag, and an outlet gasket.

Each participant will also receive an Energy and Water Use Tracking Form, which provides guidance on how to track current household energy and water usage, monitor changes, and calculate estimated savings.

Program Outcomes

Since launching in October 2025, the program has checked out 62 toolkits across multiple events in the unincorporated area. Residents have received 248 LED lightbulbs, 186 faucet aerators, 62 low-flow showerheads, and other items. Participants report learning actionable ways to reduce energy and water use, such as identifying leaks, adjusting water pressure, and installing efficient lighting. Many participants purchased additional tools for personal use and shared positive feedback, including:

  • “Installed everything; planning to replace heat pump water heater soon.”
  • “Found a toilet leak using the dye tablets.”
  • “Learned how much energy electronics use; loved the weatherstripping.”
  • “User guide was easy to follow and very informative.”

Overall, participants gained hands-on knowledge of their household energy and water use while making a meaningful environmental impact!

Individual installing a faucet aerator at a sink faucet

Residents can check out a toolkit by visiting the County Operations Center during scheduled dates and times or by attending an upcoming event (details for both are listed below). Reservations are recommended to guarantee availability. Toolkits are available for up to 14 calendar days. After use, toolkits are returned to the same checkout location or a nearby participating location (please check the program website to confirm). Please see the upcoming events below for checkout.

Upcoming Events

Julian – Community Trade Show, 2129 Main Street, Julian, CA, 92036

  • Pick-Up: Wednesday, April 8 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Julian – Julian Branch Library, 1850 Highway 78, Julian, CA 92036

  • Pick-Up/Return: Wednesday, April 15 | 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
  • Return ONLY: Wednesday, April 22 | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

County Operations Center, 5510 Overland Avenue, Suite 210, San Diego

  • Schedule a pick-up on Wednesdays between 8 AM – 4 PM (reservations required)

By using the toolkit, residents can conserve resources, reduce waste, and take meaningful steps toward sustainability. Please check the program website regularly for upcoming toolkit events. You can also stay connected by signing up for our monthly newsletter, and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.